Discover the six best train trips in Thailand

Weather of Arabia - A full century has passed since the establishment of the first railway line in Thailand, a line extending over a distance of 50 miles linking Bangkok and the former royal capital, Ayutthaya. The railway network has been expanded since then to cover most parts of the country, despite the progress of other means of transportation. Like buses and planes, train journeys are still one of the best ways to explore Thailand and see its stunning scenery.

Even the Thai government recognizes the potential of railways and there are projects on the horizon to develop high-speed rail lines, and the iconic New Bangkok Station in Bangkok is one of the largest railway hubs in Southeast Asia.

Currently, trains in Thailand may not be very advanced in terms of technology, but the trains operated by the State Railways of Thailand (SRT) provide exceptional comfort and come with ample space for passengers, especially in sleeper cars. In addition, you can enjoy wonderful Thai food, whether from the food cart, or from small vendors between the stations, and the trip offers you stunning landscapes and a unique travel experience with historic train stations and strange experiences such as the market that witnesses the passage of the train, and in this article we present to you the best six Train trips in Thailand.

Mahashay line

Starting from Thonburi station and ending in Samut Songkhram, the distance is 50 miles (80 km).

One of the most wonderful train trips in Thailand is this short line designated for travelers looking for a unique experience. The trip begins near Bangkok and ends in the heart of the distinctive market.

The adventure begins at Wongyan Yai Station in Thonburi, crossing the Chao Phraya River from Bangkok. Trains leave hourly for Samut Sakhon (also known as Mahachai). From the train window, you can enjoy a view of the houses, temples and shops where the trains are approaching. Along the way, you will pass by views of palm trees, fields of diverse cedar trees, swamps thriving with giant ear plants and canna lilies, and short periods of stopping at stations add an enchanting experience to the journey.

When you reach Samut Sakhon, the farmland disappears completely, and after disembarking and walking through one of the busiest fresh markets in the country, you will arrive at a port crowded with waterflowers and wooden boats.

When you take the ferry to Ban Lam, you will transfer to another train, this time towards Samut Songkhram, and you will emerge directly into the bustle of crowded market stalls and between the arrivals and departures of the trains, it is a wonderful sight as these stalls are directly on the tracks, and are quickly transported at train arrival; As it is an unmissable view.

Death railways

The journey starts from Thonburi, ends in Nam Tok, and the total distance is 258 miles (415 km).

The railway known as the "Death Railway" is considered one of the most famous and historic places in Thailand. It was built during the Japanese occupation of the country during World War II. Construction began in October 1942 by Allied prisoners of war and enslaved laborers who had to work with simple tools and dynamite. . More than 12,000 prisoners of war died, and nearly 90,000 workers were recruited and forced to work as a result of poor conditions, lack of medical equipment, and brutal treatment by camp guards. The most dangerous part of the railway construction was the “Fire Corridor,” the huge piece of rock known for its mysterious illumination during work. At night.

Given the rugged terrain this railway passes through, it is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful train journeys in Thailand, and a collection of 688 bridges were built along the way, including the famous bridge over the River Kwai near Kanchanaburi (now known as the Death Railway Bridge ), which was then the only steel bridge built in Thailand.

Trains that pass the Doom Railway are considered third class, which means they do not have air conditioning and mainly have wooden seats (it is best to sit on the left side for the best views). Today, this line is considered a tourist route, and stops are made throughout the journey to visit historical monuments. And caves.

Sleeper train to Chiang Mai

Thailand's first long-distance railway, connecting Bangkok with the northern city of Chiang Mai, is the classic line of train journey in Thailand.

It is a great opportunity to experience a sleeper train journey in Thailand. Trains leave Bangkok in the early afternoon, which means most of the journey will be overnight. When you wake up in the morning, you'll be surrounded by stunning views of the northern Thai countryside as the trains pass through the tunnels and dense forests of Doi Khun Tan National Park, which is located south of Chiang Mai. May, and if you have chosen a more expensive ticket, you may enjoy your journey on one of the shiny new trains of the Thai Railways Company. It's also a good idea to buy tickets early, as this famous line is very popular with tourists, especially those traveling in the afternoon.

Beach train

This railway bypasses the Gulf of Thailand, and although sea views are rare, it passes through the stunning landscapes of Petchaburi and Prachuap Keri Khan provinces where you can admire stunning views, including salt marshes and coconut plantations; Your final destination is Hua Hin, Thailand's original beach haven, dating back to the 19th century.

The train station in Hua Hin is one of the most prominent landmarks on the railway. This red and white station is considered one of the most beautiful train stations in Thailand. It was built in 1926 with a gingerbread Victoria design that includes columns and decorations of carved wood. Since Hua Hin owes its prosperity to the industry... Railroad, this station is a major source of pride, and you'll find its distinctive design repeated throughout the city.

Night train to Laos

Home - Bangkok; End - Thanaling; Distance - 402 miles / 648 km.

This acclaimed international route departs in the afternoon from Bangkok, crossing the Mekong River into Laos; It's a great opportunity to experience Thailand's overnight sleeper trains and in the morning, with the warm sun rays glowing in your bed, you'll pass through the small villages and rice fields, which make up Thailand's rural north-east.

After a stop in Nong Kai, you'll cross the Friendship Bridge into Laos where the 15-minute ride takes you to Thanaling Station (also known as Dongvasai), meaning you'll need to take a taxi or tuk-tuk to travel the rest of the 10 miles to The capital, Vientiane, is currently working on a high-speed train to connect these two destinations, and is expected to be completed in 2028.

Eastern and Eastern train

Do you find the menus on trains a little short for you? So, know that traveling on the Far East Luxury Train is an unparalleled luxury experience, as this train covers a distance of up to 1,100 miles (1,800 km) between Bangkok and Singapore. Designed in a style that evokes memories of the golden ages of train travel, passengers who choose this luxurious journey are offered an exceptional three-night and four-day experience, and passengers can enjoy their stay in luxurious private cabins, although they may also spend quality time in the observation facilities and dining lounges.

The trip includes outdoor activities including tours and excursions in Thailand and Malaysia, giving passengers the opportunity to explore diverse landscapes and different cultures as the Far East Train runs between Bangkok and Singapore twice a month, allowing travelers to choose a suitable date for their luxury trip.

Tips for buying train tickets in Thailand

You can get train tickets online via the SRT website, but if you're in Bangkok, the best way to buy tickets efficiently is to visit Hualamphong Station in person.

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